Knowledge management and organization's perception in the United Arab Emirates: case study

Purpose – The challenge of knowledge management (KM) is to determine what information within an organization qualifies as “valuable”. Not all information is knowledge, and not all knowledge is valuable. The key is to find the relevant and worthwhile knowledge within a vast sea of information. The main purpose of the paper was to ascertain the meaning managers ascribe to the concept of KM. This study was not intended to build or test theory, but does offer some insights into needed and relevant research in the area of KM. Design/methodology/approach – This empirical seeks sought to determine whether or not CEOs in UAE organizations are capable in managing knowledge to the advantage of the firm. The study sample consists of 102 managers in different organizations in Abu Dhabi/UAE, reflecting their attitudes towards KM. Findings – Several managers expressed concerns over technological issues. These issues related to technical infrastructure and security of data on the internet. The finding was that Knowledge should make a difference in some way, materially or spiritually, and that KM resources will be best employed by organizations utilizing technology as a long‐term investment. Originality/value – This paper fulfils and identifies needs and offers new thought to individuals in the field of management and information technology.